UAW finds it difficult to unionize Hyundai’s workers at its plant in the U.S.

It would “not be easy” for the UAW to unionize Hyundai’s workers at its plant in the U.S., according to the automaker’s vice chairman. Yoon Yeo-cheol, who manages Hyundai's labor relations, said that its workers in the Montgomery, Alabama factory don’t feel any need to be a member of the UAW since Hyundai provides them with stable jobs. Hyundai's plant in Alabama, which has over 2,500 people, produces the Elantra and Sonata sedans.

Kia Motors, the sister company of Hyundai, operates an assembly plant in West Point, Ga. According to UAW President Bob King, they hope to unionize the workers at the plants of non-U.S. automakers such as those based in Japan, South Korea, or Germany. The UAW initiated protests at over 80 Hyundai U.S. dealerships last week to support a South Korean woman who has an ongoing sexual harassment suit against one of its suppliers.

At the time, UAW spokeswoman Michele Martin said that this doesn’t have anything to do with the domestic organizing campaign. She clarified that Hyundai is not the target. Days ago, the UAW said that the plans had changed and that it won’t anymore select a particular firm to organize in the U.S.

The newest Hyundai 2011 was first seen in the 2009 Los Angeles Auto Show. This event showcased the brand’s version of the renowned midsize sedan for its North American consumers. In line with this, Hyundai also launched its now famous fluidic sculpture design philosophy along with its all-four cylinder engine series bound for the US market.

Sonata is actually Hyundai’s second instalment among its 24/7 2.0 project. This product initiative aims to produce 7 new Hyundai models within the 24 month time frame. The first model to take part in this 2-year project is none other than the all-new Hyundai Tucson. Right after which, the new Sonata came in and will begin its production by December 2009. This process will take place at Hyundai’s US plant in Alabama. The initial release is expected by the start of the following year, as early as January 2010.

The latest 2011 model will be the first to show off Hyundai’s highly modern approach. This new Sonata would be using the all-new four cylinders ---kind of a breakthrough for the midsize car segment. That, along with Hyundai’s dynamic design and sophisticated features, will definitely get everyone so excited. And for that same reason, we could only question why in the world there is such a car that looks so modern but also smart. Indeed, there is no reason to spend a lot of money just to have a taste of the finer things in life. Because now, Hyundai brings to us the efficiency of a four cylinder with the V6 engine’s powerful performance.

As for its new design language, the team had started it all with the 2011 Tucson, which later on was followed by the new Sonata. Little did we know that it took them about three years or so to come up with the beautiful fluidic sculpture design. Nevertheless, this highly consistent and solid sculpture will show up in all upcoming Hyundai models.

The interrelating lines best describe the fluidic outline on the surface. To some, it sort of mimics the motion of the rippling water. There’s no questioning why it was inspired by nature in the first place. We’re only glad that the same sophisticated element now defines Hyundai’s new identity.

The new Sonata’s exterior profile is obviously low, light and extended. This makes the high beltline leave a long and slender impression particularly at the last window at the rear. The singular side profile comes with extensive flowing outlines and enhanced by chrome trims usually seen on the windows. This time, the new model sports this beautiful chrome accents all the way to the headlights and hood and keeps running along the gorgeous beltline. The new powerful chrome grille defines the bolder front with finely detailed headlights on both ends.

If there’s one thing that’s hard to ignore, it’s probably the fluidic design that continues even inside the new Sonata. The luxurious cabin features the new centre console with flow through instrument panel making it more inviting to come in whether you’re the driver or the passenger. To complete the look, Hyundai’s strong sporty stance is emphasised by the multi-spoke wheels available in 16-inch, 17-inch or 18 – inch.